Dennis S. Griffin, 79, of Russell, passed away in the early hours on Monday, April 13, 2026 at the Syracuse Veterans Administration Hospital where he was surrounded by family.

Dennis was born May 26, 1946 in Watertown, a son of the late Donald and June (Phillips) Griffin. Dennis was a 1966 graduate of Knox-Memorial Central School and served his country honorably in the United States ARMY from September of 1966 to September of 1972. Dennis served in two infantry divisions in which he was a paratrooper, the 101st Airborne Infantry and the 82nd Airborne Infantry, affectionately called the “Screaming Eagles”. He served 12 months in Viet Nam, received four Purple Heart Medals, two Bronze Stars and numerous other awards and decorations.

Dennis was married to Connie Ashlaw, together they had three son and although the marriage ended, they remained friends. Later Dennis married Mary Anson Cook, who predeceased him in 2020. Prior to entering the ARMY, Dennis worked at the Kraft Cheese Plant in Canton and St. Joe’s Mines in Edwards. Upon his return from service, Dennis worked at the Gouverneur Paper Mill and then the Newton Falls Paper Mill, from which he retired after 30 dedicated years.

Denny as he was affectionately known, was well loved by so very many. He was community minded, as displayed by his service to his country and his service in the DeGrasse, Clare, South Russell Fire Department and later the Russell Fire Department. Denny loved his gardens, was an avid fisherman and had a quick, dry sense of humor. Not an April 1st would go by uncelebrated as long as he was able. He enjoyed spending time at his camp on the Grasse River and watching the wildlife go by. He especially loved it when his sister, Leah-Rae could join him there for some quiet time.

Often tents popped up along the river’s shore, families from near and far gathered there; hunters came and spent time and many a card game or Parcheesi game was played after the sun went down. As long as there was daylight, he loved being out of doors. Denny loved people but also old cars, eagles and dogs.

Dennis is survived by two sons, Stephen (Amber) Griffin of Canton, Bradley (Penny) Griffin of Russell, step sons David Cook (Tamara Merkley) of Fine and Harold Cook (Debbie Hickox) of Hermon, several grand and great-grandchildren, sisters Diana (Richard) Law of the Town of Manlius and Leah-Rae Baldwin of Savannah, NY. Also surviving are a daughter-in-law Patricia Griffin of Russell and his first wife Connie Badger of Mayfield, NY, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents Donald and June and his wife Mary, Dennis was predeceased by a son, Joey Griffin, sister Donna Mae Griffin, step son John Cook and brother-in-law Raymond “Butch” Baldwin.

Contributions in lieu of flowers would be thankfully received by enRiCH (Russell Community Helpers), 24 Pestle Street; Russell, NY 13684 or the Russell United Methodist Church, 24 Pestle Street; Russell, NY 13684.

Calling hours for Dennis will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the O’Leary Funeral Home, Canton. A funeral service will follow at 4:00 pm. Following cremation, burial will be in the Hermon Cemetery at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.

A very special thank you for the loving care given to Dennis for many years from the Nurses and Doctors on the fourth floor SCI (Spinal Cord Injury) Unit at the Syracuse VA Medical Center.

Memories and condolences may be shared with Denny’s family by visiting his memorial page at www.olearyfuneralservice.com. Arrangements for Dennis S. Griffin are under the care of the O’Leary Funeral Service of Canton.